ALASDAIR FRASER

Falkirk have condemned a group of their own supporters for chanting abuse relating to the SFA and Dunfermline striker Dean Shiels during last night’s 1-0 defeat by Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the Irn-Bru Cup quarter-finals.

The last-eight clash was televised live on BBC Alba, and a section of the small away support – believed to be predominantly young fans – were heard to sing “F*** the SFA” and “Dean Shiels has only got one eye” during the first half.

The chants, repeated during the second half, were clearly audible on television and around the ground.

They came after Falkirk striker Kevin O’Hara was banned last week for eight matches for verbally abusing the Dunfermline striker regarding his sight impediment.

Falkirk are likely to escape punishment under strict liability rules. A spokesman for the club said: “Falkirk Football Club does not condone the singing heard during this evening’s match and apologise profusely for any offence caused.”

Inverness go into Tuesday’s semi-final draw thanks to Connor Bell’s second half strike. Bell almost scored again but was denied by Falkirk goalkeeper Robbie Thomson.